Augur Buzzard

Common resident. Adult distinctive with reddish tail and almost entirely white underparts. Female often has dark throat, otherwise size and proportions same as [Jackal Buzzard]. Distinguished from the uncommon white-breasted morph of Jackal Buzzard by white (not dark) underwing coverts. In flight, female is told from [Black-chested Snake-Eagle] by reddish tail and more rounded wings. Immature similar to immature of [Jackal Buzzard] but lacks the rufous tail; underwing coverts are slightly buffy, the secondaries and tail have light barring. Voice similar to that of [Jackal Buzzard]. Prefers well-wooded hill country with rocky outcrops. Pairs involved in dramatic aerial displays with stooping and talon gripping. Distribution overlaps only marginally with that of [Jackal Buzzard]. Western population almost a distinct spp. with clear isolation from eastern population. Possible hybridization of Namibian Augur and Northern Cape Jackal Buzzard populations. Feeds by hunting from perched position on lizards, snakes, small rodents, insects and birds. Nesting of sticks on cliff edge or tree on cliff. 0,8-0,13 kg.